Understanding Anxiety Disorders

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Questions and Answers

What does anxiety refer to?

A way to calm down

A lack of concerns

A degree of fear or panic (correct)

A positive feeling

The content suggests that having a condition alone is sufficient for a disorder.

False

What percentage of adults meet the criteria for one disorder?

25-29%

Anxiety involves ________ thoughts that need to be addressed.

worries Signup and view all the answers

What skills are suggested for managing anxiety?

Compression, muscle relaxation Signup and view all the answers

What is a disorder?

A disorder is a medical condition characterized by abnormal thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are criteria historically used to define a disorder?

Rarity of behavior Signup and view all the answers

Deviance refers to behaviors that are considered typical in a community.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does disability refer to in the context of disorders?

Disability refers to the degree of impairment experienced. Signup and view all the answers

Anxiety is often related to _____ focused on important future events.

fear Signup and view all the answers

What is commonly associated with anxiety disorders?

Negative health outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a cause of anxiety disorders? (Select all that apply)

Learning processes Signup and view all the answers

Anxiety disorders lead to increased social functioning.

False Signup and view all the answers

Name a physiological symptom of anxiety.

Heart racing. Signup and view all the answers

High levels of avoidance can impact _____ functioning.

occupational Signup and view all the answers

Match the following elements with their relevance to anxiety disorders:

Physiological = Heart rate and sweating Behavioral = Avoidance reactions Cognitive = Automatic threat responses Genetics = Increased risk factors Signup and view all the answers

What is a disorder defined by?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Culture does not influence how individuals experience anxiety.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are comorbid disorders?

Substance use and depression Signup and view all the answers

Generalized anxiety disorder involves excessive worry about a range of _____.

issues Signup and view all the answers

Match the following mental health terms with their definitions:

Anxiety disorder = A condition characterized by excessive worry and fear Cognitive behavioral therapy = A type of therapy aimed at changing thought patterns Cultural influence = Impact of cultural background on behavior and experiences Comorbidity = The occurrence of multiple disorders in the same individual Signup and view all the answers

What are the major symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder?

Executive symptoms and excessive worry Signup and view all the answers

Who is the founder of Psychodynamic therapy?

Sigmund Freud Signup and view all the answers

What is the main aim of Psychodynamic therapy?

To help clients achieve insight Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of 'Tino Rangatiratanga' refer to in regard to mental health?

Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of behavioral therapy?

To identify the causes of disorder behaviors Signup and view all the answers

Personality disorders are often __________ understood.

poorly Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of personality disorders?

Persistent behaviors across multiple settings Signup and view all the answers

The aim of behavioral therapy is to enforce punishment.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are cognitive behaviors described as throughout life?

Consistent Signup and view all the answers

Cognitive therapy is primarily focused on solving social interaction difficulties.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of cognitive therapy?

It addresses negative beliefs, emotional reactions, and inflexible thinking patterns. Signup and view all the answers

Cognitive therapy often requires clients to address __________ assumptions.

inflexible Signup and view all the answers

What types of childhood experiences may contribute to negative cognitive patterns?

Abuse or neglect. Signup and view all the answers

Which personality disorders are mentioned in relation to Cluster B?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Anxiety is mentioned as a common personality disorder in the context provided.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is considered the most common personality disorder as mentioned?

Borderline Personality Disorder. Signup and view all the answers

Cognitive therapy can also include __________ therapy methods.

mindfulness Signup and view all the answers

What type of personality disorder is characterized by a lack of empathy and an inflated sense of self-importance?

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Signup and view all the answers

Which cluster is associated with anxious personality disorders?

Cluster C Signup and view all the answers

People with antisocial personality disorder are less likely to violate the law.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the estimated prevalence of women experiencing certain personality disorders?

around 50% Signup and view all the answers

Which personality disorder is described as being very dependent on others?

Dependent Personality Disorder Signup and view all the answers

Obsessive __________ Disorder is associated with extreme fixations.

Compulsive Signup and view all the answers

What is a common treatment modality for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?

Behavioral therapy Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the presence of one personality disorder and the likelihood of having another?

Having one increases the chance of having another. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

What is a Disorder?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is used to define mental disorders.
The criteria used to define disorders are constantly evolving.
There are five key questions that have been asked about how to define a disorder:
- Distress or Impairment: Does the behavior cause significant distress or impairment in the person's life?
- Atypical Response: Is the behavior considered atypical compared to similar individuals in a similar context?
- Deviance: Is the behavior considered deviant based on cultural norms and values?
- Distress: Does the behavior lead to significant distress within the individual?
- Disability: Does the behavior impair the individual's ability to function effectively in daily life?
- Danger: Does the behavior pose a danger to the individual or others?
It’s important to note that none of the questions above are sufficient on their own to define a disorder. A person must meet multiple criteria for a diagnosis.

Managing Anxiety

Anxiety is a future-focused emotion that is often related to fears about an anticipated event or situation.
Panic is a present-focused emotion that is characterized by an immediate fear response.
Skills for managing anxiety include:
- Compression
- Muscle relaxation
- Guided imagery

Classification of Disorders

The classification of disorders is a complex process that is constantly changing.
There are two main approaches to classifying disorders:
- Categorical: This approach classifies individuals based on whether or not they meet specific criteria for a disorder.
- Dimensional: This approach takes into account the severity of symptoms and other factors.
The adoption of each classification approach is influenced by the changing understanding of disorders as researchers conduct new studies.
The use of evidence-based practices is crucial for appropriate diagnoses and treatment.

Anxiety Disorders

25-29% of adults meet the criteria for at least one anxiety disorder at some point in their life.
Anxiety disorders are associated with negative health outcomes, including reduced social functioning.
Individuals with anxiety disorders are less likely to spend time with friends, participate in social events, or attend events like exams due to anxiety.
Distress is disproportionate to the actual danger.
Anxiety disorders can impact physical health.
High levels of avoidance can negatively impact social and occupational functioning.
Common physiological symptoms include increased heart rate and sweating.

Causes Of Anxiety Disorders

Learning processes: Attending a lecture or avoiding it altogether can trigger anxiety.
Behavioral responses: Avoidance is a typical reaction to anxiety-inducing situations.
Cognitive responses: Overthinking or negative thought patterns contribute to anxiety.
Genetics play a role in the development of anxiety disorders, meaning some individuals are more susceptible than others.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The Sympathetic Nervous System is responsible for the "fight or flight" response.
Physical responses to this system include increased heart rate and slowed digestion.

Neurobiology

Neurobiology involves studying the brain, nervous system, and their connection to behavior and mental processes.

Differential Diagnosis

A careful assessment procedure used to identify the specific type of mental health disorder present.

Personality

Personality traits influence how individuals experience and cope with anxiety.

Comorbid Disorders

Comorbid disorders indicate the presence of multiple diagnoses simultaneously.
Anxiety disorders are often accompanied by substance use disorders and depression.

Culture and Anxiety

Culture impacts how individuals experience, express, and cope with anxiety.
Some cultures may stigmatize emotional distress, leading to social or economic consequences.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive worry, fear, and nervousness.
Generalized anxiety disorder involves persistent worry about various issues.

Biomedical vs Psychological Approaches

The biomedical approach focuses on biological factors, including medication and surgery.
The psychological approach focuses on mental processes and behavior, utilizing therapy.

Therapy For Anxiety

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used for anxiety disorders.
CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors.
Therapy can be provided to individuals, couples, families, or groups

Treaty of Waitangi

The Treaty of Waitangi is a significant document in New Zealand's history.
It outlines the relationship between the Māori and the British Crown.
The Treaty has been subject to ongoing debate about its interpretation and implications.

Psychoanalytic Therapy

Focuses on the unconscious mind and its impact on behavior.
Aims to help clients gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Often involves exploring past experiences and relationships.
Sigmund Freud is considered the founder of psychoanalysis.

Key Terms

Kawanatanga: This refers to governorship or sovereignty.
Tino Rangatiratanga: This signifies self-determination or autonomy.
Laonga: This translates to "life" or "being" in Māori.

Key Concepts

Subconscious: Refers to mental processes occurring below the level of conscious awareness, which can influence thoughts and behaviors.
Exposure Therapy: Involves confronting fears or anxieties in a gradual and controlled manner.
Behavioral Therapy: Focuses on identifying and changing maladaptive behaviors.
Reinforcement: This refers to the use of rewards to increase the likelihood of a behavior.
Personality Disorders: These are characterized by inflexible and unhealthy personality patterns that cause significant stress, dysfunction, and impairment.

Mental Health Conditions

Mental health conditions often involve a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Understanding and treating these conditions requires a comprehensive approach.
Personality disorders are often poorly understood, leading to challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
Sharing core features across multiple settings is a common characteristic of personality disorders.

Tapa Wha Hinengaro

A Māori approach to mental health and wellbeing.
Emphasizes the importance of Māori values, culture, and language in healing.
Aims to support people in recovering from mental health conditions and developing resilience.
This is a specialized and unique approach to mental well-being in relation to the Māori culture and philosophy.

Cognitive Therapy

Aims to help clients identify maladaptive thoughts, beliefs, and assumptions that can lead to intense (or reduced) emotional, and behavioral reactions.
Cognitive therapy focuses on identifying and challenging negative beliefs and thinking patterns
It is often linked to childhood or adolescence abuse or neglect.
Clients often exhibit impulsive behaviors in retaliation to events or occurrences.
Cognitive therapy can be used to address difficulties in social interactions.

Third Wave Cognitive Therapy: Mindfulness

Uses mindfulness to help clients foster positive beliefs
Focuses on interacting with thoughts rather than being consumed by them.

Personality Disorders

Cluster A: “Odd or eccentric”
Cluster B: “Dramatic, emotional, or erratic”
Cluster C: “Anxious or fearful”
There is debate whether these diagnoses are useful in understanding mental health disorders.

Personality Disorders: Cluster B:

Anti-social Personality Disorder: More common in prisoners
Borderline Personality Disorder: Most common personality disorder

Treatment Approaches

The therapeutic relationship plays a significant role in personality disorder treatment.
Anxiety and depression often co-occur with personality disorders.

Personality Disorders

A personality disorder is a type of mental health condition that is characterized by inflexible and unhealthy personality traits.
Personality disorders can cause significant problems in a person's relationships, work, and overall quality of life.
While historically thought to be exclusively "not conforming" in men, we now know women are also diagnosed with personality disorders.
Cluster C personality disorders are often referred to as "anxious" personality disorders.
Cluster C personality disorders include Avoidant, Dependent, and Obsessive-Compulsive personality disorders.
Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by an intense fear of rejection, criticism, or social situations. People diagnosed with Avoidant Personality disorder tend to avoid social interactions and are often isolated.
Dependent Personality Disorder is characterized by a strong need to be taken care of by others. People with this disorder have a difficult time making decisions on their own, often feel helpless, and rely on others for approval.
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder is characterized by a preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control. People with this disorder often have difficulty relaxing, are rigid in their beliefs, and have a strong need to be in charge.
Individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder often have comorbid (co-existing) mental health conditions, so it’s important to seek the help of a mental health professional for treatment and diagnosis.
A high percentage of people with Cluster C personality disorders also meet the criteria for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Personality disorders are often challenging to treat but with appropriate therapy, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
While personality disorders are often difficult to treat, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a popular treatment.
Individuals with personality disorders should always seek treatment from a mental health professional who specializes in this type of care.

Avoidant Personality disorder

The prevalence of avoidant personality disorder is approximately 2.4% of the general population.
Avoidant personality disorder is more common in women than men.
People with Avoidant Personality Disorder tend to have a more severe form of social anxiety, which can impact every aspect of their lives.
Some experts believe avoidant personality is connected to a lack of emotional support and validation during childhood.

Dependent Personality Disorder

The prevalence of dependent personality disorder is approximately 0.5% of the general population.
People with dependent personality disorder often have a history of childhood abuse or neglect.
Dependent Personality disorder can be extremely difficult to manage if the individual has not received proper treatment.

Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder

The prevalence of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder is approximately 7.9% of the general population.
People with Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder have a high rate of comorbid mental health conditions.
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality disorder is often difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms can be present in other mental health disorders like Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
It is important to remember that personality disorders represent a spectrum of behaviors and experiences.
People with personality disorders may benefit from therapy, medication, and support groups.
If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have a personality disorder, it is important to seek professional help.

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Description

This quiz explores the nature of anxiety and its classification as a disorder. It covers key concepts such as symptoms, management skills, and the societal implications of anxiety disorders. Test your knowledge on the criteria and definitions related to anxiety and its disorders.